What you need to know before a DIY reno

Thanks to Pinterest and YouTube, many of us have a false sense of confidence when it comes to tackling a renovation. Here are the top four things that should be considered before you pick up that hammer.

Make a plan. Failing to plan is planning to fail, and this saying has never been truer than when it comes to a DIY renovation. Before you pull out your toolbox to make that Pinterest dream a reality, your first step should be to write down what you would like to accomplish, along with setting a budget and creating a timeline for the project so you’re setting realistic expectations.

Call in a professional. Dreaming of an open-concept main floor or replacing your carpet with hardwood? While it may look easy to grab the sledgehammer and start knocking down walls, there might be things you are overlooking, like electrical wiring or support beams. Certain jobs are best left to the experts, and will save you money in the long run. If you’re certain you want to tackle the job yourself, consult a professional on the best way to handle the job before you begin.

Beware of bargains. See an online deal that’s too good to be true? It probably is. While many of us are pros at online shopping, valuing renovation materials is a separate area of expertise. Researching and comparing prices with your local hardware store can give first-time renovators a good baseline of what things should cost. Always remember to check the return policy before making big purchases online in case what you see isn’t what you get.

Safety first. Ensuring that you and anyone else working on your project is protected is key to a safe and successful renovation. Protect your eyes, ears and hands, and don’t forget that if you are working with certain materials ventilation is important.